2012 MLB Team Preview: Atlanta Braves

Atlanta Braves

2011—89-73

Key Additions--- None

Key Losses-------Derek Lowe, Alex Gonzalez

Lineup---I expect this offense to be about what they were last year when they won 89 games and really fell on their face to lose out on the playoffs. The outfield starts with Jason Heyward. He really struggled last year but you have to hope he can put it behind him and learn from it. He will be a big key to this offense. I really like Michael Bourn. Although I would like him to get on base more, when he gets on he steals and sets up runs. That is a great guy to have at the top of the lineup. LF is split, with Eric Hinske getting time and Martin Prado filling in at times as well. Although I don’t believe Gonzalez is a huge loss, I still believe he was better than what they will have at that position this year. Prado and Chipper Jones, in his last year, will man 3b. For one I hope Chipper can contribute one last time for this team. It is refreshing to see a player spend his whole career with 1 team. The right side of the infield has a chance to be very good for this team. Dan Uggla has a monster power year last year, but needs to bring his average up. Freddie Freeman was pretty solid, and they hope he can get better. Brian McCann offensively is one of the best in the game, so you can expect him to continue to produce. Although they did not make a splash on offense, I do think this offense if Heyward can emerge is plenty good enough to win the division.

Pitching---Health, Health, Health. I know I have said it a few times, but this is what this staff is all about. When you have youngsters who need to prove they can stay healthy and a veteran in Tim Hudson who is out for the first few weeks, you have to question the ability to get through 162 games. However, the depth they have built will help them accomplish that. Considering all of the trade rumors around Jair Jurrjens, he is expected to anchor this rotation. With Tommy Hanson and Brandon Beachy lining up behind him, that is powers arms at the front of this rotation. With Hudson out to start the year, that leave youngsters to fill in at the back end. But to be clear, very good youngsters at that. Mike Minor, Randall Delgado and Julio Teheran all have great arms and potential, and expect to fit in the Braves plan for a long time. This bullpen was lights out last year, and although they return many of the same guys I have concerns that the work load put on them last year will come back to haunt them. I hope I am wrong, because they are fun to watch with Craig Kimbrel and Jonny Venters coming in to close it out. As a pitching staff as a whole though, they are definitely capable of winning this division.

Outlook---With a few breaks going their way, I think we are going to see the Braves in a very similar position as last year, battling it out for a playoff spot. However, this relies on Heyward stepping it up a notch, some of their veterans staying healthy, and the youngsters in the staff and bullpen maintaining the numbers that they had last year. All in all though, I really like not only what this team looks like for this year, but also into the future. And although I was never a huge Chipper Jones fan, I would love to see him go out on a positive note.

2012 MLB Team Preview: Kansas City Royals

Kansas City Royals

2011—71-91

Key Additions--- Jonathan Broxton, Jonathan Sanchez

Key Losses-------Melky Cabrera

Lineup---This lineup is full of youngsters. Some have proven to be very good hitters, while others are still trying to prove they belong in the big leagues. Alex Gordon in LF is turning into one of the best young players into the game, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see him on the All Star team this year. He is something special and I hope he will be a Royal for a long time. By dealing Cabrera they opened the door for Lorenzo Cain, who will be given the full time CF job. While he is great defensively, I am not sure if will produce much offense. Jeff Francoeur had a nice bounce back year last year, and is expected to man RF. The infield is young and inexperienced and could go either way. Mike Moustakas will play 3b, and although he got some time last year is expected to get his first full season under his belt. Alcides Escobar and Chris Getz are above average defensively, but lack much offense from the middle. When you factor in Cain in CF, these 2 guys up the middle and the injury to Salvador Perez, they are as light hitting up the middle as anyone. Eric Hosmer should be a good hitter at 1b, and they are really relying on Billy Butler to provide a middle of the order bat from their DH. This lineup is definitely capable of the numbers, and will be fun to see how these young guys develop.

Pitching---As many top prospects as they have in this lineup, you would think they would have at least 1 or 2 in this rotation, but that is not the case. They have really scrapped together this starting rotation. Luke Hochevar will be leading the rotation, although he finished last year with a 4.68 ERA. They re-signed Bruce Chen to be their #2, and considering he pitched in the last game at old Riverfront stadium, that should say a lot about this signing. The acquisition of Sanchez was a solid one. He isn’t as impressive as some of the other pitchers that were moved this year, but will provide stability in the rotation. Luis Mendoza and Danny Duffy(great name) will fill the back 2 spots of the rotation. Obviously, the back end of this rotation is not as solid as you would like. The bullpen took a huge hit with the injury to Joakim Soria. Their ability to really shorten games would have been a big key, with set up men Aaron Crowe and Jonathan Broxton. Now they will move one to the closer role and have less depth. With a rotation as young as they have, this injury is a very important loss.

Outlook---Once again, the Royals are being seen in the media as sleeper picks. Last year they were viewed the same way, although I did not buy into it. They may improve this year, mainly because they are no longer the worst team in their division, but I don’t expect them to be too big of factors in the dog days of summer. Yes this team is still building, but until they can build on their pitching, they will struggle to be competitive.

2012 MLB Team Preview: San Diego Padres

San Diego Padres

2011—71-91

Key Additions--- Huston Street, Carlos Quentin, Reds Farm System

Key Losses-------Mat Latos, Heath Bell,

Lineup---Considering they play in a very large ballpark, this lineup may end up scoring the least runs in the league. I really don’t see who is a constant who is going to provide the stability in this offense. They gave Cameron Maybin a nice contract, and his defense is great, but he is still a below average hitter. Will Venable will hold on the right field spot, and Jesus Guzman seems to be the front runner to start in LF. The hope is Carlos Quentin can get healthy and provide that middle of the order bat in the outfield. I was and still am very high on Yonder Alonso while he was with the Reds, and look forward to seeing how he produces for this team. To me, the rest of the infield is very average at best, with Jason Bartlett playing SS, Orlando Hudson at 2b, and Chase Headley at 3b. Nick Hundley has a chance to be an above average catcher if he can play 140 games, but if not they have Yasmani Grandal who is another player they got from the Reds. While I think this offense can be good in a few years, this year is going to be a struggle.

Pitching---There are some good arms on this team that I expect to have pretty solid years for the Padres. Honestly, it is hard to tell the true numbers with the park, but they should have some guys that have solid numbers at the end. I really like how they got Edinson Volquez in the Mat Latos trade, and if he has a bounce back year they could either look to extend him or deal him for some more pieces in the future. Cory Luebke will finally get the chance to stay in the rotation and has the ability to be a #2 or 3 pitcher for this team. Tim Stauffer and Clayton Richard both produced pretty good numbers last year, and should do the same if they can go 200 innings. The bullpen has been the strength in the past, but with the loss of Bell to the Marlins they will struggle at times. Yes they did pick up Huston Street, but all in all this bullpen is a long ways from where they were a few years ago.

Outlook---All in all, this is another team with a plan. I like the deals they made in the offseason, and love what they got in return with the Reds. They potentially got 2 future middle of the order bats as well as a chip in Volquez that could prove very valuable. But for this season, this team will really struggle to score runs no matter how productive this staff is. Taking into account the quality of the pitching staff in the NL West, be prepared for some low scoring games in San Diego this year.

2012 MLB Team Preview: Washington Nationals

Washington Nationals

2011—80-81

Key Additions--- Edwin Jackson, Brad Lidge, Gio Gonzalez

Key Losses-------None

Lineup---This lineup remains virtually intact from what they had last year, when if it wasn’t for a cancelled game they may have finished at .500. They signed Jayson Werth, which was by all accounts a bad signing, but you have to think he is going to have somewhat of a bounce back year. Roger Bernadina will be given the full time job in center, more for his defense than anything. Michael Morse could be a big key to this offense. If he can duplicate his .303 average and 31 HR, that will go a long way to help this offense. The infield is once again flanked by Ryan Zimmerman. Health will be the key, as he will be a huge factor in this lineup. As for the rest of the infield they are all light hitting, which will limit the total potential of this lineup. Wilson Ramos has the potential to be a nice bat, but the jury is still out on him. All in all, although they really didn’t do anything to improve this offense, with a full season of Ryan Zimmerman as well as a bounce back year from Werth, I would expect this offense to be improved.

Pitching---As little as they did to improve their offense, the pitching staff is a different story. Realistically, you could sit back and say that they have 4 new and better starters than what they had a year ago. The return of Stephen Strasburg will be exciting not only for the Nationals fan base but also for all of baseball. The hope is he will return stronger to lead this rotation. Going out and getting Gio Gonzalez is a very solid contribution. Even if he is just an average pitcher, the innings he will provide will be a key to this rotation. Same can be said for Edwin Jackson. I know he wanted a long term deal, but took a 1 year deal to prove worth and value going into next year. He will provide stability and innings as well. The big key to this rotation may just be Jordan Zimmerman. He has the ability to be a frond end starter, and going along with the other 3 makes up a very solid front 4. The bullpen appears to have taken a hit with Drew Storen likely starting the year on the DL. However, this appears to be a short term injury. In the meantime they have some options with Brad Lidge and Tyler Clippard. But ultimately this bullpen may rely on the ability of the staff to get through a lot of innings.

Outlook---Before I begin my research on this team, I honestly was not in the mindset that this team was ready to be a contender. But after this preview, I really like what they did. When you look at some of the other teams, the time is now for this team to win. Although they may still be a year removed as Zimmerman tries to establish himself and Strasburg battles back from injury, this is definitely a team with a plan. Things are looking up in Washington, and fans should be excited for the future.

2012 MLB Team Preview: Boston Red Sox

Boston Red Sox

2011—90-72

Key Additions---Andrew Bailey

Key Losses-------Theo Epstein, Marco Scutaro, Jonathan Papelbon, Jason Varitek, JD Drew, Tim Wakefield

Lineup---I wonder when the last time you go into the season and say that without a doubt the Boston Red Sox came out of the offseason worse than when they entered. It all starts with the lineup. You could make an argument that they downgraded at SS, LF (while Crawford is out) and RF. Taking a step back, the loss of Varitek hurts in the leadership front. And they will not get much production out of this spot. Adrian Gonzalez is still a stud, and Dustin Pedroia will still put up his numbers. Don’t expect much from the SS position no matter who plays there, which is why the Marco Scutaro deal was such a head scratcher. I like Youk, but not completely sure he can stay healthy. Jacob Ellsbury is hoping to continue off the year he built last year, but as I mentioned not having Carl Crawford hurts, and even though JD Drew never panned out as expected, replacing him with Cody Ross is not an upgrade. Honestly, I really shake my head at this offense and where they are at entering the season.

Pitching---The rotation is hands down the strength of this team, as long as their key men can stay healthy. Josh Beckett and Jon Lester lead this staff along with Clay Buckholz. Becket and Lester have had problems staying healthy in the past few seasons, but are big producers when healthy. Buckholz is another one of those guys that has had an issue staying healthy. He is a stud when he is pitching, but keeping him on the mound is key. Considering that John Lackey and Dice-K are either out for the year or the majority of the year, they will rely on Daniel Bard and possibly Alfredo Alceves. On potential they have a chance to be really good, but I just don’t have faith they can stay healthy to do that. As for the bullpen this is the other area where I shake my head at what they did. They basically traded out Jonathan Papelbon for Andrew Bailey. While I like Bailey, I just don’t understand how you can settle for that. With the concern in the rotation, I expect this bullpen to be used quite a bit and therefore get beat up later in the year. Can this staff be good, absolutely, but a lot of ifs on guys being able to stay healthy?

Outlook---It may appear as if I am really down on this team, but it isn’t so much in believing in their talent as it is utter surprise that they are willing to rely on the players they have. I just can’t understand some of the moves they make, but will say that if the chips fall right and this rotation can stay healthy, and Carl Crawford can return to form, they can win a lot of games. But my gut is that this just won’t happen. And considering the strength of this division, it may be another sad October in Boston.

2012 MLB Team Preview: Chicago Cubs

Chicago Cubs

2011—71-91

Key Additions---David DeJesus, Chris Volstad, Theo Epstein

Key Losses-------Sean Marshall, Carlos Zambrano, Aramis Ramirez, Carlos Pena

Lineup---When you lose both your corner infielders who were middle of the order type of bats last year, and basically try to replace them by signing David DeJesus, who batted .240 with 10 HR in 2011, that will not get the job done. But essentially that is what the Cubs did. They were not a very good offense last year, and only got worse. Let’s start with the outfield, where DeJesus will man right field. Add him to Marlon Byrd and the vastly overpaid Alfonso Soriano, who amazingly has 3 years and 54 million left on that deal, and Dave Sveum has got to wonder what he has took over. The bright spot may be youngster Starlin Castro, who is a star in the making. The problem is he is not surrounded by an infield that will help him. Ian Stewart will get the majority of the starts at 3b and Darwin Barney at 2b. Neither of those adds too much excitement about their bats. The 1b position will not provide much, until Anthony Rizzo gets the call, and the Cubs hope he will turn into the hitter they think he can be. Geovany Soto will once again try to emulate what he did his rookie year, but so far he has not been able to do so. All in all, in what I think will be a competitive NL Central, this offense will be shut down time and time again.

Pitching---The pitching staff has some old and some new faces going into 2012. Matt Garza is still around, although I am not sure for how long. Like the #2 man in this rotation, Ryan Dempster, both of these players have much more value on other teams. I think without a doubt 1 if not both of these guys are dealt before the trade deadline to try to help this team build out for the future. They do have some depth, as they have guys like Paul Maholm, Jeff Samardzija, Travis Wood and Chris Volstad vying for 3 spots. That is a good solid core of starters, who should provide innings and allow for the Cubs to deal one of their front end starters. Their bullpen remains anchored by Carlos Marmol and Kerry Wood. Wood apparently loves the Cubs, because with offers from other teams there was no reason to come back. As for Marmol, there are rumors circulating around him and I expect him to also be dealt as the house cleaning continues. Once that happens, this bullpen will be in complete shambles.

Outlook---I know Cubs fans don’t want to hear it, but the next few seasons in Chicago will be all about trying to win in 2015. They are still hamstrung by the Soriano contract, and have very few parts to make a run at a division title. But they are on the right path with the additional of Theo Epstein and Jed Hoyer. I fully believe these guys know what it takes to win a title, and will ultimately bring that elusive title to the north side of Chicago. But for the next few years, when teams like the Reds/Brewers/Cards are making a run at the division, the Cubs will be wallowing near the cellar of the division.

2012 MLB Team Preview: Milwaukee Brewers

Milwaukee Brewers

2011—96-66

Key Additions---Aramis Ramirez

Key Losses-------Prince Fielder

Lineup---What a break this team caught when reigning MVP somehow had his suspension overturned. He is the centerpiece to this offense, and having him for a whole 162 game schedule is a huge plus for this team. If the Brewers would have had to replace Fielder and then have Braun miss 50 games that would have put a huge hit to this team's chances. As it stands now, their offense, while not as good as last year, should be ok. As I mentioned Braun will be back anchoring this lineup. Corey Hart in RF is a nice hitter who helps with the middle of the lineup. Nyjer Morgan had a nice year last year, but I expect him to take a step back. If healthy I expect Carlos Gomez to regain his starting spot. The infield is hoping that newcomer Ramirez is able to offset the loss of Fielder. He takes over for Casey McGehee, who was dealt for Jose Veras. Alex Gonzalez adds veteran leadership up the middle, but is light hitting at this point in his career. Rickie Weeks is an above average 2b, but only if he stays healthy. That is the key with him. They are going to struggle at first base, so don’t expect much out of that position. All in all, this offense should put up decent numbers, much better than what it looked like 6 weeks ago.

Pitching---The Brewers went for broke last year with the acquisition of Zack Greinke and Shaun Marcum, and it paid off with a playoff berth. The nice thing for the Brew Crew is these guys are back and help anchor a solid top 3 of the rotation. Along with Greinke and Marcum they will slide in Yovani Gallardo to be the ace of the staff. Those 3, if they can stay healthy, are a solid foundation to build a pitching staff. Randy Wolf and Chris Narveson will fill in the 4-5 holes for this team. While they won’t blow you away with their stuff, last year they combined for almost 400 IP and a 4.00 ERA, and I can assure you if the Brewers can get that again they would be thrilled. As I mentioned they added Veras to help bolster the bullpen, and along with Francisco Rodriguez, who at 8 million this year is an expensive set up man, and John Axford at closer, will be a very good back end of the pen. All in all, as long as the front end of this rotation can stay healthy, they will carry this team a long way towards another year in contention.

Outlook---Ultimately, as I mentioned this team got a huge break with Braun having his suspension overturned. With the Cardinals always being in contention, the Reds going for broke over the next year or 2, and some other teams in the NL improving; those 50 games could have put this team in a big hole. But he is good to go, so I expect the Brewers to remain right in the hunt in a competitive NL Central. Do they have enough to push their way past the other 2 teams, I am not sure, as I still think this team has some holes, but I do expect Miller Park to be hosting some exciting baseball in September.

2012 MLB Team Preview: Detroit Tigers

Detroit Tigers

2011—95-67

Key Additions---Prince Fielder

Key Losses-------Magglio Ordonez, Victor Martinez

Lineup---Obviously when you start talking about this lineup it starts with the acquisition of Prince Fielder. Putting him in the middle of this lineup along with Miguel Cabrera immediately gives the Tigers what I consider the best 1-2 punch in the league. I know there are a lot of questions marks about what they are going to do when Martinez returns from his injury, but I don’t think those are things that need to be worried about now; obviously the Tigers are trying to win this year. I do worry about them defensively. Along with those 2 Jhonny Peralta will provide you some offense, but is terrible defensively. Ryan Raburn rounds out the infield, and he is a good compliment to the corner guys. Alex Avila is a very good catcher, and provides a good hitter at that position. Their outfield is weak. Brennan Boesch has been predicted by many to take a step forward, but I don’t think he will be much better than he was last year. Austin Jackson is a stud defensively, but he is light hitting. But with that being said, with the 2 big boppers in the middle I do expect him to score 100 runs this year. Can Delmon Young produce enough to help out the big 2? That is yet to be determined. All in all because of how good Fielder and Cabrera is this team is going to score runs, but how much the lack of defense by this infield affects this team is to be determined. But at the end of the day, they upgraded, and this should make them better.

Pitching---Not only does this team have a stud at the top and very solid in the middle of the rotation, but they also have great depth. It all starts with Justin Verlander. It is hard to imagine him having a better year than what he had in 2011, but he will still put up very good numbers and lead this staff. Plus, with the runs they will score, he will once again put up a big win total. As you look down this staff, I really like where they stand 2-4. I loved the trade for Doug Fister last year, and expect him to put up some solid numbers. They have youngsters at the 3-4 spots in the rotation with Max Scherzer and Rick Porcello. I believe last year I was somewhat down on Porcello, but expect big things from him this year. I think he will put it together and provide quite a season for the Tigers. I also love the depth of this rotation, as any number of guys could step in at the 5 spot and product. I am especially excited to see what Jacob Turner can do if he can stay healthy. He has #1 stuff and upside. They picked up Jose Valverde’s option to provide stability in the back end of this bullpen. I also like the rest of this pen, as they have power arms and a good mix of lefties/righties. Plus, considering their starting pitching, they should not be overused. All in all, this is one of the best overall pitching staffs in the league.

Outlook---Although as I said I do worry about the defense of this team, and the overall balance of the lineup, they are not going to be touched for the division. They are just too good. They nearly won 100 games last year, and you could strongly argue they got quite a bit better with Fielder. I expect Jim Leyland to be setting up his rotation right around the time that Detroit kids go back to school at the end of August. And with their staff, this is a team that has to be in the first wave mentioned as teams that have the best shot at a World Series title.

2012 MLB Team Preview: San Francisco Giants

San Francisco Giants

2011—86-76

Key Additions---Javy Lopez, Melky Cabrera, Angel Pagan

Key Losses-------Jonathan Sanchez, Carlos Beltran

Lineup---I am still trying to figure out how a team like the Giants who have absolute horses at the top end of their rotation will not make a splash in free agency or the trade market to improve their offense. This is another year where they make minimal moves and hope they can pull together enough offense to win another title. I for one don’t agree with it. Yes they got Cabrera and Pagan to help in the outfield, but along with Nate Schierholtz that is just not a very good offensive outfield. I just don’t see where the production is going to come from these 3. In the infield, it is the same story. Yes Aubrey Huff is a nice player, and Pablo Sandoval has shown the ability to be a good hitter, but to rely on these 2 as your corner infielders is very shaky. Up the middle they are weak, with Freddy Sanchez another year older and Brandon Crawford a very light hitting shortstop. Yes getting Buster Posey back is a big step forward, but he is going to have a lot of pressure on him to carry this offense. Like I said, I just don’t understand how you continue to ignore help for your offense.

Pitching---Let’s start with the loss of Jonathan Sanchez. Yes, it is never good to trade away starting pitching, but this team has more than enough to fight through that. Their top 3 may just be as good as anyone’s in the league. Tim Lincecum signed a 2 year extension and should be as solid as any pitcher out there. Matt Cain is pitching for a contract, and I fully expect him to have a big year. And Madison Bumgarner is 1 year older, and 1 year better. I think he will have a very good season. The back end of this rotation does not need to be great, just good enough. Can Ryan Vogelsong continue what he had last year? I have my doubts. And what can they expect to get out of Barry Zito? Like I said, they don’t need to be great, just good enough to save the pen and win a few games. As long as Brian Wilson stays healthy, I like this bullpen. Jeremy Affeldt has been lights on for a few years, and Javy Lopez gives them another solid arm. Add that up with a healthy Wilson, and a staff that should go deep into games, and this bullpen and staff in general should have no problem shutting down teams. But as I talked about earlier, how much will they have to shut down teams to win???

Outlook---Overall, I like the chances of this team again this year, but as I stated just can’t understand why you wouldn’t add offense. And a big question mark will hang over this team in what they are ultimately going to do with Matt Cain. With that being said, I do think the division is open for them to make another run, and when you have top end pitching like they have, I wouldn’t be surprised to see them make a type of run they made a few years ago to the title.

2012 MLB Team Preview: Tampa Bay Rays

Tampa Bay Rays

2011—91-71

Key Additions---Carlos Pena, Luke Scott

Key Losses-------Johnny Damon

Lineup---When you look at this lineup and think of the division they play in, you don’t give them much hope to score the amount of runs they will to. But they have built a team that is going to play very good defense and help out that great pitching staff even more. Evan Longoria is obviously the key to this lineup, as he has the ability to carry this team offensively for a long stretch. Unfortunately that is about as much offense as they are going to get from their infield. Ben Zobrist is a nice player, but I don’t expect him to continue to pace he had in 2011. Sean Rodriguez won’t hit too much, and Carlos Pena, while providing great defense, will not hit for much, especially considering being a corner infielder. And don’t expect them to get much out of the catching position. BJ Upton has all the skills to be a great center fielder, but it is a matter of him putting it together. Desmond Jennings is another player with great upside, but I don’t think you can pencil him in to be a key to this offense. They also brought in Scott to be the DH, but not sure he is capable of producing as much as they will need him to with this offense. As I said, this is a relatively weak lineup, but as you will read, it is not going to be the lineup that makes this team successful.

Pitching---When you first glance at this rotation one work comes to mind…POTENTIAL… then you think, what if they reach that potential, then I think WOW. Let’s start with their #6 guy, Wade Davis. He would be a 2-3 type of most other teams, but he may not make the rotation. That says a lot. This team is loaded with good young arms. It starts with David Price, who has shown the ability to be dominant, although there is still concern about his ability to go deep into games. James Shields provides a really solid #2, and should be good for 15-17 wins. They also have Jeremy Hellickson and Jeff Nieman, who are above average arms and fit well in the back end of that rotation. And possibly the biggest key and best pitcher is Matt Moore, who showed flashes last year and if given the full time opportunity may just be the best of the bunch. The bullpen is a different story. As much as I love this rotation, I really wish they would have went out and tried to shore up the bullpen a big more. Kyle Farnsworth has proven time and time again he is not a closer, so I don’t expect him to really be a good one this year. They do have some power arms, but I expect this bullpen to be a big weakness. With that being said, I do think the rotation is strong enough to overcome this, and should carry them to a chance at the division title in a very competitive division.

Outlook---We know how good this division is, so I didn’t like that the Rays just basically stood pat this offseason. However, I think their take is that adding an arm like Moore is just like signing a big name starting pitcher. We will see how that works out. I think Joe Maddon is a great manager, and expect because of this rotation the Rays to be in it right until the end. Will they have enough to make the playoffs again, only time will tell, but if they are able to get there, they have enough young power arms they could finally bring home that first title. Too bad no one in Tampa will be there to watch it!!!

College Baseball Prospect Update: Pitchers - 3.24.12

Every weekend Prospect Junkies will be keeping tabs on the performances of the Top College Baseball Prospects and feeding their stats and our insights into one convenient place.

Southeastern Conference

Jonathon Crawford - RHP - Florida - So. 5IP 4H 1ER 1B 2K.

Steven Rodriguez - LHP - Florida - Jr. 2.1IP 0H 0ER 1BB 3K.

Austin Maddox - RHP - Florida - Jr. 1.2IP 1H 1ER 1BB 2K. (W, 2-0).

Matt Price - RHP - South Carolina - Jr. 2.1IP 1H 2ER 1BB 2K. (L, 3-2). Return to the pen makes sense, as Gamecockes figure that if Price is going to give you 6 IP, you might as well spread that between Friday and Sunday. But this series shows that Florida is just so much deeper in the pen.

Ryne Stanek - RHP - Arkansas - So. 6.1IP 3H 0ER 2BB 6K. (W, 6-0). Will be a candidate to go #1 overall in 2013 if this keeps up.

Tyler Beede - RHP - Vanderbilt - Fr. 5IP 8H 1ER 1BB 8K.

Will Clinard - RHP - Vanderbilt - Jr. 1IP 2H 1ER 0BB 0K. (W, 2-1).

Atlantic Coast Conference

Kent Emanuel - LHP - North Carolina - So. 6.2IP 5H 0ER 2BB 4K. (L, 5-1). Tough luck loss following 3 unearned runs.

Branden Kline - RHP - Virginia - Jr. 9IP 2H 1ER 0BB 6K. (W, 4-2).

Tim Cooney - LHP - Wake Forest - Jr. 5.2IP 4H 4ER 4BB 3K.

Luke Bard - RHP - Georgia Tech - Jr. 7IP 6H 2ER 0BB 6K.

Big 12 Conference

Dillon Overton - LHP - Oklahoma - So. 9IP 8H 2ER 0BB 5K. (W, 4-0).

Andrew Heaney - LHP - Oklahoma State - Jr. 9IP 7H 2ER 0BB 13K. (W, 5-1).

Ross Stripling - RHP - Texas A&M - Sr. 9IP 8H 2ER 1BB 9K. (W, 4-0).

Parker French - RHP - Texas - Fr. 4.1IP 6h 3ER 2BB 0K.

Hoby Milner - LHP - Texas - Jr. 1IP 2H 1ER 0BB 2K.

John Curtiss - RHP - Texas - Fr. 1.1IP 0H 0ER 0BB 0K.

Dillion Peters - LHP - Texas - Fr. .1IP 0H 0ER 0BB 0K.

Corey Knebel - RHP - Texas - So. 4IP 0H 0ER 2BB 4K. (W, 2-0).

Rob Zastryzny - LHP - Missouri - So. 8IP 8H 1ER 4BB 12K.

Pac 12 Conference

Konner Wade - RHP - Arizona - So. 7.2IP 7H 3ER 4BB 1K.

Nick Vander Tuig - RHP - UCLA - So. 5.2IP 7H 3ER 4BB 6K.

Jake Reed - RHP - Oregon - Fr. 7.1IP 4H 3ER 3BB 4K.

Trevor Williams - RHP - Arizona State - So. 8.2IP 4H 1ER 2BB 3K.

Jake Barrett - RHP - Arizona State - Jr. .1IP 0H 0ER 0BB 1K.

Big East Conference

Justin Amlung - RHP - Louisville - Jr. 7IP 6H 1ER 2BB 9K. (W, 4-2).

Jeff Thompson - RHP - Louisville - Jr. 6.2Ip 6H 4ER 2BB 11K. (W, 5-0).

Dace Kime - RHP - Louisville - So. 1IP 1H 0ER 0BB 2K.

Derek Self - RHP - Louisville - Jr. 1.1IP 0H 0ER 1BB 0K. (S, 6).

Jerome Werniuk - RHP - St. John's - Jr. 1.2IP 1H 2ER 1BB 0K.

Conference USA

Jordan Stephens - RHP - Rice - Fr. 4.2IP 5H 1ER 1BB 6K.

Ben Lively - RHP - Central Florida - So. 1.2IP 3H 2ER 2BB 1K.

Garrett Nuss - RHP - Central Florida - Fr. 1.1IP 1H 0ER 0BB 0K.

Dan Langfield - RHP - Memphis - Jr. 6.2IP 4H 3ER 6BB 8K. (L, 4-2).

John Simms - RHP - Rice - So. 1IP 2H 1ER 0BB 0K.

Southern League

Chris Beck - RHP - Georgia Southern - Jr. 6IP 7H 2ER 1BB 8K.

West Coast Conference

Kyle Zimmer - RHP - San Francisco - Jr. 9IP 5H 0ER 1BB 9K. (W, 2-1).

Calvin Drummond - RHP - San Diego - Jr. 7IP 8H 4ER 2BB 4K. (W, 5-1)

Scott Frazier - RHP - Pepperdine - So. 5.2IP 11H 6ER 3BB 0K. (L, 3-3).

College Baseball Prospect Update: Pitchers 3.23.12

Every weekend Prospect Junkies will be keeping tabs on the performances of the Top College Baseball Prospects and feeding their stats and our insights into one convenient place.

Southeastern Conference

Hudson Randall - RHP - Florida - Jr. 5.2IP 7H 2ER 1BB 11K. Thursday.

Steven Rodriguez - LHP - Florida - Jr. .1IP 1H 1ER 0BB 1K. (L, 3-1). Thursday.

Austin Maddox - RHP - Florida - Jr. .2IP 2H 3ER 2BB 0K. Thursday

Michael Roth - LHP - South Carolina - Sr. 6.2IP 4H 1ER 5BB. Thursday.

Matt Price - RHP - South Carolina - Jr. 2.1IP 0H 0ER 3BB 3K. (W, 3-1). Comes out of the bullpen for the first time this season to secure the win against Florida.

Brian Johnson - LHP - Florida - Jr. 6IP 5H 2ER 2BB 4K. (W, 4-0). Two way star also goes 2-5 2RBI as Gators even up series.

Greg Larson - RHP - Florida - Sr. .1IP 1H 0ER 0BB 0K.

Daniel Gibson - LHP - Florida - So. 2.2IP 1H 0ER 0BB 2K.

Forrest Koumas - RHP - South Carolina - So. 1IP 4H 6ER 5BB 3K. Lack of starting pitching depth may cause Gamecocks to rethink moving Price back to the Pen.

DJ Baxendale - RHP - Arkansas - Jr. 3IP 9H 7ER 1BB 2K. (L, 5-1). Roughed up by Mississippi State.

Chris Stratton - RHP - Mississippi State - Jr. 7IP 5H 2ER 2BB 9K. (W, 5-0).

Kevin Gausman - RHP - LSU - So. 5IP 6H 2ER 5BB 8K.

Taylor Rodgers - LHP - Kentucky - Jr. 6.1IP 3H 2ER 0BB 5K. (L, 4-1). Wildcats fall to 22-1.

Alex Wood - LHP - Georgia - So. 4.1IP 4H 0ER 1BB 3K.

Kevin Ziomek - LHP - Vanderbilt - So. 5.1IP 1H 1ER 1BB 6K. (L, 2-3).

Bobby Wahl - RHP - Mississippi - So. 5.1IP 7H 4Er 2BB 8K.

Ian Gardeck - RHP - Alabama - Jr. .1IP 2H 2ER 0BB 0K.

Atlantic Coast Conference

Buck Farmer - RHP - Georgia Tech - Jr. 4.1IP 14H 11ER 3BB 3K. (L, 4-2)

Kevin Brady - RHP - Clemson - Jr. 2.1Ip 4H 1ER 1BB 2K.

Kyle Crockett - RHP - Virginia - So. 1IP 0H 0ER 1BB 1K.

Marcus Stroman - RHP - Duke - Jr. 8IP 10H 3ER 1BB 8K. (W, 3-2).

Big 12 Conference

Michael Wacha - RHP - Texas A&M - Jr. 9IP 2H 0ER 8K. (W, 4-0)

Hoby Milner - LHP - Texas - Jr. 1.2Ip 0H 0ER 0BB 2K.

John Curtiss - RHP - Texas - Fr. .1IP 1H 1ER 1BB 0K.

Dillon Peters - LHP - Texas - Fr. .2IP 0H 0ER 1BB 0K.

Pac 12 Conference

Brady Rodgers - RHP - Arizona State - Jr. 9IP 8H 1ER 1BB 6K.

Kurt Heyer - RHP - Arizona - Jr. 6.1IP

Justin Jones - LHP - California - Jr. 7IP 9H 2ER 3BB 1K.

Ben Wetzler - LHP - Oregon State - So. 6.2IP 4H 1ER 4BB 7K.

Adam Plutko - RHP - UCLA - So. 6IP 4H 2ER 3BB 10K.

Big East Conference

Matt Carasiti - RHP - St. John's - Jr. 5.2IP 10H 3H 3ER 2BB 6K.

Conference USA

Aaron Blair - RHP - Marshall - So. 6IP 7H 4ER 3BB 6K.

Matthew Reckling - RHP - Rice - Jr. 9IP 3H 0ER 1BB 8K. (W, 4-0)

Big West Conference

Dylan Florio - RHP - Cal State Fullerton - Jr. 8IP 8H 1ER 0BB 6K. (W, 3-2). Thursday.

Michael Lorenzen - RHP - Cal State Fullerton - Jr. 1.2IP 2H 0ER 0BB 2K. (S, 8).

Matt Imhof - LHP - Cal Poly - Fr. 5IP 8H 4ER 2BB 5K.

Matt Anderson - RHP - Long Beach State - Jr. 6.1IP 7H 2ER 2BB 7K.

Andrew Thurman - RHP - UC Irvine - So. 6IP 5H 3ER 2BB 3K.

Mountain West Conference

Sam Wolff - RHP - New Mexico - Jr. 4.2IP 2H 4ER 4BB 1K.

Kaleb Merck - RHP - TCU - Jr. .2IP 1H 2ER 1BB 0K.

Michael Cederoth - RHP - San Diego State - Fr. 8IP 3H 1ER 3BB 6K.

Northeast Conference

Pat Light - RHP - Monmouth - Jr. 9IP 2H 0ER 0BB 11K. (W, 4-1)

West Coast Conference

Jon Moscot - RHP - Pepperdine - Jr. 7IP 5H 4ER 2BB 6K.

2012 MLB Team Preview: Miami Marlins

Miami Marlins

Filed by: Brad Koesters - Prospect Junkies MLB Corrospondant

2011—72-90

Key Additions---Jose Reyes, Mark Buehrle, Heath Bell, Ozzie Guillen, Carlos Zambrano

Key Losses-------Javy Vazquez,

Lineup---I don’t think any team was talked about more than the Marlins, who are changing their name from Florida to Miami and moving into a new stadium. The Jose Reyes acquisition not only gave them a true leadoff hitter, but allowed them to upgrade at 3b as well with Hanley Ramirez moving over to play that position. These 2 make up arguably the best left side of the infield in the league. The right side is just okay, but imagine if they would have gotten Albert Pujols. Wow. But they will settle with Gabby Sanchez. The outfield has potential with Logan Morrison and Mike Stanton, and I expect them to produce quite a bit. If Morrison can keep his head on he should be a solid contributor, and Stanton has big time power and should be an effective middle of the order bat. All in all I like this lineup, but still can’t stop thinking about what could have been.

Pitching---I think Buehrle is one of the most underrated acquisitions of the offseason. He is the kind of guy who makes the rest of the staff better, as you know he is going to pitch 200 innings and give the bullpen a break. I don’t think people realize either that Josh Johnson only pitched 60 innings last year, so basically it was like you acquired a #1 and #2 this offseason. I expect him to be back strong this year and to his old self. Even the back end of this rotation has the chance to be pretty good. Annibal Sanchez is a very good #3, and Ricky Nolasco can be a above average pitcher in the 4 hole. The trade of Carlos Zambrano is low risk, high reward. Guillen is just the type of manager that Zambrano may need to turn it around. Signing Heath Bell gives them stability on the back end, but the rest of the bullpen is suspect. However, I am not sure that will be as big of an issue with this team, as they have starters that will go deep into games. I expect Bell to be among the league leaders in saves, and this team to really be a factor in the NL.

Outlook---If the Marlins were trying to make a big splash going into the new stadium, they have done it very well. They added the right players to the mix, and the right manager for these players. I really believe that Guillen will get the best out of guys like Zambrano, Reyes, Ramirez, etc. With the injury problems that the Phillies are having, I really think the door is open for someone else to take the NL East. Could it be the Marlins, I think it is a good possibility.

2012 MLB Team Preview: Oakland Athletics

Oakland A’s

Filed by: Brad Koesters - Prospect Junkies MLB Corrospondant

2011—74-88

Key Additions--- Yoenis Cespedes, Coco Crisp, Jarrod Parker

Key Losses-------Josh Willingham, Andrew Bailey, Gio Gonzalez, Trevor Cahill

Lineup---As much as this team dealt in trades in the offseason, very little of it was based around their offense. In fact, based on last year, I would say with the additions of Cespedes and Crisp their offense is actually slightly better than they have been. With that being said, there are quite a few question marks with this offense. Their outfield has the chance to be very good, but until we know what we will actually get from Cespedes and youngster Josh Reddick, who the A’s got from the Red Sox, we can’t say for sure that they will produce enough to be successful. The infield leaves something to be desired, but I am fairly high on Jamile Weeks and think he could become an above average 2b. The 1 thing I was surprised with in the offseason is them not dealing Kurt Suzuki, who returns at the catcher position. Also, this team will stay in the news if Manny Ramirez returns to the league and is able to produce at any level. I for one would love to see it, but I don’t think that is going to happen.

Pitching---What a difference a year makes. Last year at this time many people thought that the A’s could contend based on their young pitching staff, now a year later that staff has been torn apart and they are building for 2015. They are dealing with injuries, as well as uncertainty in who is actually going to start the year in the rotation. Brandon McCarthy looks to finally turn the corner and build off of a solid 2011 as the staff ace. After that, it is anyone’s guess as to who will be taking the ball for this team. There are names you have probably heard of, Bartolo Colon, Dallas Braden and Brett Anderson, but also newcomers like Tommy Milone and Tyson Ross. All in all though, whoever they use, they will struggle. Grant Balfour was just named the closer, but he is more of a middle of the bullpen kind of guy. Brian Fuentes should be the main setup man, but again that is not a role he can handle anymore. With the stress this young staff will put on the bullpen, I expect them to struggle.

Outlook---For one, can someone please respond and tell me why Billy Beane is allowed to blow up this team and try to rebuild as they move into a new stadium?? And people talk like he is a genius, but come on… Anyways, this team is going to struggle this year, but I give them credit for having a plan. While I don’t agree with who is leading the plan, I like how they dealt from a position of strength and have a game plan of when they are going to contend again. This division got better, and the A’s got worse, so adding that up it is going to be a long season in Oakland.

2012 MLB Team Preview: Toronto Blue Jays

Toronto Blue Jays

Filed by: Brad Koesters - Prospect Junkies MLB Corrospondant

2011—81-81

Key Additions---Francisco Cordero, Darren Oliver, Sergio Santos

Key Losses-------Jon Rauch, Frank Francisco

Lineup---While they did not add any big hitters or any real upgrades to their offense, having another year of experience with some of their younger players should only add to this lineup being better. Their outfield is flanked and led by Jose Bautista. One of the best hitters in the game, he will continue to lead. I still think Colby Rasmus can be a pretty good centerfielder, and hopefully now that he is out of St. Louis and playing full time we will see his potential. I think they are a little week in LF with Eric Thames, but all in all this is a pretty solid outfield. In the infield I like the left side of the infield quite a bit, with emerging youngsters in Brett Lawrie and Yunel Escobar. They should only continue to get better. Kelly Johnson is a good solid 2b, and if Adam Lind can produce like he did last year he will be a solid run product, and JP Arencibia, although will hit for a low average, will hit for power and drive in runs. All in all, I like the balance and potential of this lineup.

Pitching---While I don’t think they have the absolute lock down guy at the top of this rotation I do believe that with Ricky Romero and Brandon Morrow they have 2 solid guys who should rack up innings and wins. However, my belief in this staff ends with those 2. I just don’t believe in anyone else in the 3-4-5 spot in that rotation. Brett Cecil will get one of the spots, but not sure he can be consistent. Dustin McGowan will get another, but I have the same fears with him. And whoever gets the 5^th spot obviously is not going to be a reliable part of the rotation. With that being said, I really like what they did with their bullpen. It is not too often you lose 2 quality relievers, and still come out ahead in your bullpen. Santos is a young up and coming closer, and to add Coco as well, who has been a closer for most of his career; he should fit in well in the 8^th inning. Oliver is a great acquisition, as I think most people do not realize how good he has been. If you are able to throw these 3 out in the 7-8-9 innings of games, you really have the ability to shorten games.

Outlook---I look at their offense and think that is absolutely a lineup good enough to make the playoffs, even playing in the AL East. I look at that bullpen and like how they have added depth and power arms to the pen, and again think that the bullpen is strong enough to make the playoffs. But then I look at that rotation, and get quite a few question marks. With that being said, although they have dealt some pieces of late, if they are able to hang around and make a splash for a top tier starter at the trade deadline, this is very much a team that could have a decent shot at getting to the postseason. The sad truth is, if this team were in any other division, you would probably have them right there at the top, but in the AL East, they may struggle to finish above .500 again.

2012 MLB Team Preview: New York Mets

New York Mets

Filed by: Brad Koesters - Prospect Junkies MLB Corrospondant

2011—77-85

Key Additions---Frank Francisco, Jon Rauch, Andres Torres

Key Losses-------Jose Reyes

Lineup---You think of a lineup that has David Wright and Jason Bay in the middle of it, and have to think that is a good start. When healthy, this is a decent tandem, but can they stay healthy? And even if these 2 are able to stay healthy, is Bay really as good as he is sometimes perceived? Looking at the rest of this lineup, and all I can say is Johan Santana could come back and be his old self, and he still isn’t winning 15 games. I am not a huge Bay guy, so combining him with Andres Torres and likely Lucas Duda in the outfield makes this a well below average bunch of hitters. Combine that with CitiField, and I expect the Mets to have one of the worst productions from a group of outfielders in the league. The infield doesn’t provide much hope either. The loss of Reyes hurts. Yes Wright could be a nice middle of the order bat, but I wouldn’t be surprised if he is dealt mid-season if he puts up some nice numbers. The right side of the infield could be okay with Daniel Murphy and Ike Davis, but not nearly enough to carry the burden. All in all, I think this has the makings of one of the worst offenses in the NL.

Pitching---Right off the bat you have to look at what could or could not be based on the health of Johan Santana. When healthy, he is as good as they have been in the league, and is a flat out dominant pitcher. While it may take some time, I do hope he is able to stay healthy and is back to normal. Lining up behind him is a good group of arms, or at least they look good compared to this offense. Mike Pelfrey has been successful at this level and slides in at the #2 slot, while Jonathan Niese is slotted as their 3^rd starter. RA Dickey is coming off a pretty good year and is slated as the #4 guy. All in all, I think this is a pretty decent rotation, IF Santana stays healthy. As for the bullpen, I like that they added Francisco and also Rauch to the back end. Although they are not shut down type relievers, it adds stability. And with a somewhat established rotation, I don’t expect this bullpen to be abused like some of the others. With that being said, I still don’t expect big numbers, and don’t see Francisco getting that many opportunities. They just won’t score runs.

Outlook---You hear analyst upon analyst mention how down the Mets are, and they are absolutely right. I somewhat feel sorry for the guys who signed with the Mets with the expectation that they were going to spend money to win. Yes they spent money, but now that has changed. To me, if I am a Mets fan, I am hoping Wright, Bay, and Santana get healthy and produce, so we can try to flip them for pieces to build upon. While Bay and Santana are signed for huge money next year, I think with a solid 1^st half of the year you could possibly move them. Wright becomes a free agent, so the Mets have about 3 months to find out if he wants to stick around, and if not trade him for pieces. But for 2012, if you have wanted to visit CitiField, it would be a good year, because there will be plenty of good seats available.

2012 MLB Team Preview: Seattle Mariners

Seattle Mariners

Filed by: Brad Koesters - Prospect Junkies MLB Corrospondant

2011—67-95

Key Additions---Jesus Montero

Key Losses-------Michael Pineda

Lineup---For a team that appears to be going nowhere, the Mariners have done a nice job of building out a solid foundation for their offense. While I can’t say I agree with the trade which brought them Montero, if he is able to provide what they expect, he will fit in nicely into this lineup for a long time with the likes of Dustin Ackley and Justin Smoak. Bo Ryan at SS is light hitting, but he provides stability with the middle of the infield and leadership. Chone Figgins has been a horrible signing thus far, and honestly I think every Mariner fan would agree if they can get a few good months and ship him out of town that would be best. Ichiro still proves year in and year out he is one of the best hitters in the game, but this year batting 3^rd is going to be a change for him. Can he drive in runs, that is yet to be determined? While this is a good mix of young and old, I just don’t think it is the right mix of it. But in the AL West they should be able to produce some runs.

Pitching---I will look at this pitching staff 2 different ways. With Felix Hernandez as the anchor of the staff you know that in 20% of your games you have a really good chance of winning. Unfortunately the last few years they have not been able to put up runs for him, so hopefully this changes. Honestly, for the sake of baseball I hope Felix gets out of town, as the rest of the country deserved to see what a guy like this can do on a big stage. But if I am the Mariners, no chance I deal him. He is truly one of the best. Now take a look at this staff without him, and you see a team that is in trouble. Jason Vargas is a good pitcher, but not a #2, and if they are truly counting on Kevin Millwood someone needs to check the clocks at Safeco to make sure they realize it is 2012, not 2002. Their bullpen isn’t much better. Brandon League will get some saves, as they will win some close games, but the rest of the pen is made up of guys who I don’t expect to be able to get outs. All in all, I see this staff being able to go 25-10 when Felix pitches and 40-85 when he doesn’t.

Outlook---Last year when I wrote up this preview I had an angry Mariner’s fan upset that I didn’t think their rotation could support Felix. I was right. Here is my problem with this team. They have no direction in my mind. Go young or go veteran, but make a decision. You have a pretty solid young nucleus, but what message are you sending by trading away a young starter? Granted you got a very good prospect, but you can’t win without pitching. To me, the move I would have made would have been to trade Felix for a king’s ransom and build with the players in place and Pineda. Look at what other teams got for young pitching; you don’t think they could have gotten much more for Felix. But hey, if they are content with the cellar of the AL West, who am I to argue.

2012 MLB Team Preview: Colorado Rockies

Colorado Rockies

Filed by: Brad Koesters - Prospect Junkies MLB Corrospondant

2011—73-89

Key Additions---Michael Cuddyer, Ramon Hernandez, Jeremy Guthrie

Key Losses-------Huston Street

Lineup---The Rockies made a fairly large splash in free agency by acquiring Cuddyer for 3 years and 31 million. Do I like the deal? In a word, NO. Does he help your lineup, yes, but does he make it that much better considering the money you spent, not in my mind. The focal point of this lineup continues to be Carlos Gonzalez and Troy Tulowitzki. Fact is, these 2 are about as dangerous of a 1-2 punch as you are going to find. But adding Cuddyer thinking he can be the 3^rd guy is not a smart move. Yes they have Todd Helton, but we know he is in his down years. Hernadez is a nice addition, but not someone you will plug into the middle of the lineup. I just don’t think the Rockies are going to get good impact on their investment. As of now they are counting on Casey Blake as their 3b, meaning that the corners of their infield will not provide much pop. Marco Scutaro is a nice player, as is Dexter Fowler, but neither will be someone you can really bank on to product day in and day out. Did this lineup get better, yes, but not enough to compete in this division.

Pitching---While I don’t like their rotation, I do like that they are committed to some youngsters and appear ready to get them experience. I do like the deal for Jeremy Guthrie, who has good potential but was not able to harness it in Baltimore. Maybe a change of scenery will help him. It will be interesting to see how Drew Pomeranz performs this year, remember he was the center of the Ubaldo Jimenez trade last year. Jhoulys Chacin can be electric and has great stuff, but only if he can throw strikes, which was a big struggle last year. Unless someone really takes a big step forward on the back end, there are going to struggle going late into games, therefore turning to their bullpen quite a bit. This is a bullpen who had their closer traded, so everyone’s role became a little more important. Does Rafael Betancourt have the stuff to be a closer, yes, but there is a reason why he hasn’t held that role before. Yes he was great at the end of last year, but I have my doubts it will continue. The rest of the bullpen does nothing to impress me, so I expect with the added workload they will get from a young staff, it will be a struggle for them as well.

Outlook---Earlier I talked about the Cuddyer deal and how I didn’t like it, and I will tell you why. While I think he is a good player, to spend that kind of money made no sense. Go out and get a solid platoon situation for much cheaper, and use the money you have left to upgrade your pitching staff. Ultimately, I just don’t think this team will have enough to compete. As I mentioned earlier, the D-Backs are going to be tough, and I expect the Giants to be back in the thick of things. Sorry Rockies fans, I believe it is going to be a long year in Denver.

2012 MLB Team Preview: Arizona Diamondbacks

Welcome to the first installment of the Prospect Junkies 2-A-Days. Please join us every day where we preview 2 different teams, writing about key additions and losses, breaking down their lineup and pitching, and giving you our outlook for the upcoming season. I encourage you to leave comments or ask questions as we go along. I will provide my picks division by division, and I also encourage you check out our podcast near the beginning of opening day. And last, thank goodness baseball season is here!!!

Brad Koesters - Prospect Junkies MLB Corrospondant.

Arizona Diamondbacks

2012 MLB Team Preview: Baltimore Orioles

Welcome to the first installment of the Prospect Junkies 2-A-Days. Please join us every day where we preview 2 different teams, writing about key additions and losses, breaking down their lineup and pitching, and giving you our outlook for the upcoming season. I encourage you to leave comments or ask questions as we go along. I will provide my picks division by division, and I also encourage you check out our podcast near the beginning of opening day. And last, thank goodness baseball season is here!!!

Brad Koesters - Prospect Junkies MLB Corrospondant.

Baltimore Orioles

College Baseball Prospect Update: Pitchers - 3.17.12

Every weekend Prospect Junkies will be keeping tabs on the performances of the Top College Baseball Prospects and feeding their stats and our insights into one convenient place.

Southeastern Conference

Brian Johnson - LHP - Florida - Jr. 6IP 2H 0ER 1BB 9K. (W, 3-0)

Daniel Gibson - LHP - Florida - So. 2.1IP 4H 1ER 0BB 0K.

Greg Larson - RHP - Florida - Sr. .2IP 0H 0ER 0BB 1K.

Matt Price - RHP - South Carolina - Jr. 6.1IP 7H 4ER 3BB 5K. (L, 2-1).

Forrest Koumas - RHP - South Carolina - So. .2IP 0H 0ER 0BB 1K.

Jerad Grundy - LHP - Kentucky - Jr. 5.2IP 7H 3ER 3BB 3K. Kentucky takes the series against the 2 time defending champs and moves to 20-0. They're legit.

Trevor Gott - RHP - Kentucky - So. 1IP 0H 0ER 0BB 2K.

Ryne Stanek - RHP - Arkansas - So. 5.2IP 5H 2ER 3BB 4K. (W, 5-0).

Ryan Eades - RHP - LSU - So. 7IP 8H 1ER 1BB 2K. (W, 4-1).

College Baseball Prospect Update: Pitchers - 3.16.12

Every weekend Prospect Junkies will be keeping tabs on the performances of the Top College Baseball Prospects and feeding their stats and our insights into one convenient place.

Southeastern Conference

Hudson Randall - RHP - Florida - Jr. 6.2IP 6H 2ER 0BB 6K. (W, 3-0).

Steven Rodriguez - LHP - Florida - Jr. .2IP 0ER 0BB 0K.

Michael Roth - LHP - South Carolina - Sr. 6.2IP 5H 2ER 2BB 6K.

Forrest Koumas - RHP - South Carolina - So. 0IP 0H 0ER 1BB 0K.

Kevin Ziomek - LHP - Vanderbilt - So. 4.1IP 5ER 2BB 1K. (L, 2-2).

DJ Baxendale - RHP - Arkansas - Jr. 5.1IP 5H 1ER 2BB 4K.

Kevin Gausman - RHP - LSU - So. 8.2IP 4H 1ER 4BB 11K.

Bobby Wahl - RHP - Mississippi - So. 6IP 6H 0ER 1BB 6K. (W, 4-0).

Alex Wood - LHP - Georgia - So. 4IP 4H 0ER 0BB 3K.

Ian Gardeck - RHP - Alabama - Jr. 1IP 0H 0ER 2BB 1K.

Taylor Rogers - LHP - Kentucky - Jr. 5.2IP 8H 2ER 2BB 4K. Kentucky with a HUGE home win over South Carolina to improve to 19-0.

College Baseball Prospect Update: PItchers - 3.10.12

Every weekend Prospect Junkies will be keeping tabs on the performances of the Top College Baseball Prospects and feeding their stats and our insights into one convenient place.

Southeastern Conference

Brian Johnson - LHP - Florida - Jr. 6IP 5H 3ER 0BB 6K. (W, 2-0).

Greg Larson - RHP - Florida - Sr. 2IP 1H 0ER 0BB 2K.

Daniel Gibson - LHP - Florida - So. 1IP 0H 0ER 0BB 1K.

Matt Price - RHP - South Carolina - Jr. 6IP 4H 1ER 1BB 6K. (W, 2-0).

Tyler Webb - LHP - South Carolina - Jr. 1.2IP 1H 0ER 1BB 2K. Through 7 appearances and 10.2IP, has not given up a run while only giving up 4 hits and striking out 13.

Forrest Koumas - RHP - South Carolina - So. .1.1IP 1H 0ER 0BB 1K. (S, 3).

DJ Baxendale - RHP - Arkansas - Jr. 5IP 6H 2ER 1BB 3K. (W, 5-0).

Ryan Eades - RHP - LSU - So. 8IP 10H 4ER 0ER 7K. (W, 3-1).

Jerad Grundy - LHP - Kentucky - Jr. 7.1IP 3H 0ER 0BB 7K. (W, 3-0).

Will Clinard - RHP - Vanderbilt - Jr. .2IP 0H 0ER 0BB 0K.

College Baseball Prospect Update: Pitchers 3.9.12

Every weekend Prospect Junkies will be keeping tabs on the performances of the Top College Baseball Prospects and feeding their stats and our insights into one convenient place.

Southeastern Conference

Hudson Randall - RHP - Florida - Jr. 7.1IP 6H 2ER 0B 6K.

Steven Rodriguez - LHP - Florida - Jr. .2IP 0H 0ER 0BB 1K. (W, 3-0).

Austin Maddox - RHP - Florida - Jr. 1IP 1H 0ER 0BB 3K. (S, 4).

Michael Roth - LHP - South Carolina - Sr. 8.2IP 6H 1ER 0BB 10K. (W, 2-0).

Ryne Stanek - RHP - Arkansas - So. 7IP 2H 0ER 2BB 6K. (W, 4-0).

Alex Wood - LHP - Georgia - So. 6.2IP 6H 2ER 1BB 5K. (L, 3-1).

Kevin Ziomek - LHP - Vanderbilt - So. 8IP 3H 0ER 1BB 8K. (W, 2-1). After a 1-7 start, Vanderbilt has won 4 of 5 including a series opening win against 11-4 San Diego.

Kevin Gausman - RHP - LSU - So. 8IP 2H 0ER 0BB 11K. (W, 4-0).

Bobby Wahl - RHP - Mississippi - So. 6IP 1H 0ER 3BB 10K. (W, 3-0).

Taylor Rogers - LHP - Kentucky - Jr. 6.1IP 8H 5ER 2BB 5K. (W, 4-0). Kentucky moves to 14-0.